Pumpkin Perfect – Creative Carving Tips!

28

Oct

Halloween is coming up on Monday (and many celebrations this weekend!) and we know you’ll want to be prepared with the perfect pumpkin. I love Halloween – the decorating, the scary movies, the little kids dressed like strawberries and princesses and Harry Potter… what’s not to love!? My favorite tradition, however, is the pumpkin carving contest I have with my husband, sister and brother-in-law. We each pick a pumpkin and go crazy, and then we force my mom to choose a winner!

This year, shake up your tradition a little and try something new. Jack-o-lanterns come in all shapes and sizes, and some of them aren’t even pumpkins! Here are my top tips for a spook-tacular Halloween. \

O.M.G (Oh My Gourd)

Don’t be afraid to step out of the box and carve up a super unique Jack-o-lantern this season. Instead of the traditional orange pumpkin, try carving silly faces into funky gourds instead! Found at most supermarkets, these odd-shaped squash come in a variety of colors – try making a wart-faced witch out of a green and lumpy gourd!

I am psyched to try this idea from Coastal Living, and make a Jack-o-lantern out of pineapple… talk about trick or treat!

Let’s Get Colorful

For most, pumpkin = ORANGE. Personally, I can’t get enough of WHITE pumpkins. Don’t worry – your Jack-o-lantern can be just as scary – and may actually glow better in the dark! Carve a ghastly grin, or try your hand an owl face – what a hoot!

Keepin it Teal

With so many kids these days suffering from food and gluten allergies and intolerance, Halloween can be a real nightmare. Keep trick-or-treating safe and happy for everyone by supporting the Teal Pumpkin Project. Offer non-food treats like bouncy balls, glow sticks or spooky stickers as an alternative for kids who can’t eat candy. To show your support and let families know that your treats are safe for all, put a teal-painted pumpkin at your door.

Be sure to show us your best work! One Upland would love to feature your Jack-o-lantern on our Facebook page!